Title: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea Author: Thomas Stark Date: 7-15-2008 Key words: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Clostridium difficile, Pseudomembranous colitis, probiotics, yogurt Abstract: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The most common pathogen associated with AAD is Clostridium difficile which is among the leading causes of nosocomial infections. Succesfull treatment for this condition involves prolonged use of antibiotics or live-stool enimas. Evidence suggests that the use of probiotics has no role in treatment or prevention of this condition. This document was created by a medical student enrolled in the Primary Care Clerkship at the University of Minnesota Medical

School as part of the course project. The aim of the project is to present information on a medical topic in the format of a

patient education handout. It does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational

purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. The information provided may no longer be up to date since it has not been reviewed since the date of creation. The information provided should not be used to diagnose a health problem or

disease, or as a means of determining treatment. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately contact a doctor or call 911.

ANTIBIOTIC ASSOCIATED DIARRHEA

• Are antibiotics giving you something more than you bargained for?

• Watery stools and crampy abdominal pain following a course of antibiotics may mean that you have antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD)

• This is a common condition and can happen after using most antibiotics.

• It is caused by overgrowth of bacteria known as Clostridium difficile.

• Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics is essential for

HOW CAN I AVOID AAD?

• The best way to prevent AAD is to limit use of antibiotics.

• Beware of false claims from “Probiotic” remedies.

• Probiotics are not useful in preventing or treating AAD

• Do not use antibiotics for the treatment of colds or other viral conditions.

• Treatment may involve long-term use of addition antibiotics eliminate the C. difficile baceria.

Is there

Hope?

University of Minnesota Medical School

Thomas Stark Yes, though… Stool transplants may be needed

in difficult cases.